Solar power is a growing force in global energy markets - while current contribution of total electricity generation is 3.9%  in the United States and 1% in Canada— but both countries have ambitious renewable energy targets that are likely to accelerate solar adoption. Here's why growth is anticipated:

Falling Costs: The cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels has dropped significantly over the past decade, making solar power more competitive with fossil fuels.

Government Incentives: Many states, provinces, and federal programs in both the U.S. and Canada offer tax credits, subsidies, and grants to encourage solar installations.

Technological Advances: Improved efficiency in solar panels, better energy storage solutions, and smart grid technologies are enhancing solar power's reliability and affordability.

Corporate Commitments: Many businesses are committing to 100% renewable energy, with solar playing a key role.

Climate Goals: With both countries aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century, investments in renewable energy, including solar, are critical.

Solar PV trained people work in wide variety of jobs with many different titles, including:

• PV Installer
• Installation site supervisor
• Service technician
• Maintenance technical
• Solar site assessor
• Designer (such as PV System Engineer)
• Engineers
• Sales (Solar and PV sales Associates)

Solar Technicians can perform the following tasks:

• Design: Plan system configurations based on customer needs and site conditions
• Install: Assemble, cut, and bolt support structures, panels, and modules
• Connect: Connect panels to the electrical system
• Test: Activate and test systems
• Maintain: Perform routine maintenance and repairs
• Educate: Educate clients on how to operate their systems

Solar Panel Installers can perform the following tasks:

• Assessing locations to ensure they are suitable for solar panels
• Measuring areas for installation
• Making adjustments to building surfaces so panels fit and are adequately supported
• Installing solar panels on residential and commercial premises 

Salary Levels

The average salary for a Solar Energy Technician is $67,058.

The average salary for a Solar Panel Installer is $43,415.